Rookie drivers test at Firebird

Rodolfo Lavin and Ryan Hunter-Reay joined the Briton at the test, with all three drivers concentrating on gaining mileage and experience in their Champ Cars, as well as preparing for the next race in Monterrey, Mexico.

Walker Racing's two drivers completed 480 miles between them over two days of running on the 1.25-mile course, working though long runs, car changes and simulated race runs. "We were able to get through tons of stuff and got good data from the things that we wanted to try with the car," said Manning. "It was good for me just to have more time in the car. I have another few hundred miles of seat time now."

Team boss Derrick Walker said: "Our focus was consistency and learning more about what our drivers need from the Reynard. I was particularly pleased with the consistency of the Bridgestone tyres. Firebird always presents a challenge for grip and, especially in testing you need the tyres to hang in there with you. Overall, the drivers ran well and we're pleased with the progress we made."

American Spirit driver Ryan Hunter-Reay ran 340 miles over three days. He said: "This test was monumental for me in terms of getting comfortable with the Champ Car. We were forced into the deep end of the pool at St. Pete with only the test at Spring Training behind us, so to complete three full days this week was just fantastic. I now feel like it's my Champ Car and my environment and that gives me a lot of extra confidence going into Mexico next week."